In the duo's absence, the Old Trafford outfit fell to five defeats and were eliminated from both domestic cup competitions.

But the midweek triumph over Cardiff could revitalise United's season, and they will feel more than confident of overcoming a Stoke side who are without a win in their last six Premier League matches and sit just three points clear of the relegation zone.

Mark Hughes' men have suffered costly defeats to fellow strugglers Crystal Palace and Sunderland in recent weeks and, with United, Manchester City and Arsenal to face in the space of a month, may need to cause at least one upset to drag themselves out of the mire.

However, securing victory over United is easier said than done - Stoke have not beaten the 20-time champions in the league since 1984.

United have already won against Stoke on two previous occasions this season, triumphing 3-2 in the league before claiming a 2-0 Capital One Cup victory at the Britannia Stadium last month.

Hughes will be without the services of Steven N'Zonzi, who serves a one-match suspension following his dismissal against Sunderland on Wednesday, while Robert Huth (knee), Andy Wilkinson (heel) and Matthew Etherington (calf) are injury doubts.